The City Botanic Gardens are a pleasant respite from the busy city and a firm favourite of lunching office workers. The gardens are dominated by open, grassy walking areas and are popular with strollers, joggers, picnickers, cyclists and skaters. The park is partly lit up at night and you stand a good chance of seeing tame possums here.

Newstead House, on the Brisbane River, is Brisbane's best-known heritage site. Set in attractive forested grounds, the historic homestead dates from 1846 and is beautifully fitted out with Victorian furnishings and antiques, clothing and period displays.

'XXXX' - that's the sound your free samples will make when you crack them open after the interesting 75-minute tour. The rather dapper animated character Mr XXXX will educate you in the goings-on of this 125-year-old brewery and divulge some of the secrets of its iconic ale. For the acme of Australian beer wear, stock up at the XXXX Beer Gear shop.